In early 1961, Guy Banister made an unsuccessful run for the office of New Orleans City Councilman-at-large. Here are some interesting quotes from his candidate profile:

I take a positive stand in favor of segregation of the races. There are 15 active organizations in New Orleans promoting integration of the races. Ten of these
organizations are Communist fronts or have submitted to Communist influence and direction. As council-man-at large, I can be helpful in nullifying the machinations of these Communist agents and help in maintaining peace and harmony in the city.

The Citizens' Council of Gentilly, one of the local branches of the Citizens' Council of Greater New Orleans, announced, through its chairman L. P. Davis, Jr., that it was "backing the candidacy of Guy Banister."